HRD STAFF DEVELOPMENT
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

NAME OF COURSE :
"What Does This Division Do?" Series: Criminal Prosecutions Division

NUMBER OF CLOCK HOURS : 1

COURSE DESCRIPTION : The Criminal Prosecutions Division has several components which provide investigative and prosecutorial assistance to local law enforcement entities and county and/or district attorneys across the state of Texas - when the county does not have the resources to investigate and prosecute complex cases or where a conflict of interest prohibits them from taking part in the prosecution.

This presentation, led by Don Clemmer (Division Chief) and a panel of section chiefs, will include interesting case work handled by the sections of Violent Crime and Major Offenders, White Collar Crime and Public Integrity, Cyber Crime and Child Protection, and Juvenile Crime Intervention as well as general information about the division.

NAME OF COURSE :
"What Does This Division Do?" Series: Postconviction Lit and Medicaid Fraud

NUMBER OF CLOCK HOURS : 1

COURSE DESCRIPTION : Division chiefs of Postconviction Litigation (Ed Marshall) and Medicaid Fraud Control Unit (Rick Copeland) will deliver a 30-minute presentation each on the work performed in their divisions.

The Postconviction Litigation Division defends the validity of state convictions and sentences when they are challenged in federal court. The Medicaid Fraud Control Unit conducts criminal investigations into and supports prosecution of violations of state and federal laws pertaining to fraud in the administration of the Medicaid program, in the provision of medical assistance and in the activities of providers under the state Medicaid plan.

COURSE DESCRIPTION : This series will cover Stephen Covey's book "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People." Over the next several months each habit studied will help participants develop into more authentic, productive, and joy-filled individuals. The habits are: Be Proactive; Begin With the End In Mind; Put First Things First; Think Win-Win; Seek First to Understand, Then to Be Understood; Synergize; and Sharpen the Saw.

Participants are requested to attend all sessions of this series. During each session, participants will set the class date for the following month.

This course will illustrate how to use Adobe Acrobat Pro with an emphasis on the skills needed for e-filing. Course topics will include using Acrobat to add exhibit tabs, bates numbers, hyperlinking, redacting, and bookmarking. The course will also demonstrate how to manipulate PDFs including how to add and delete pages, combine multiple documents, make a scanned PDF searchable, and save in PDF/A format.

COURSE DESCRIPTION : This class will cover three areas of interests: practical formula usage, such as "vlookup," "if" and "countif;" macro recording and scripting; and charting, data extrapolation and formatting.

Attendees will learn how to use Word’s advanced style capabilities. Topics will include how to create complex, multi-level list styles, table styles, and styles based on other styles.Attendees will also learn how to find and modify built-in styles such as footnote styles, how to use the outline view to create and style a document in minutes, and how to use Quick Style Sets to quickly change an entire document’s look and feel in just a few clicks.

Please note: Before attending this class, it is suggested that attendees complete Introduction to Styles in MS Word 2010 or have a basic understanding of how to use styles.

This hand-on class will cover more of the advanced features of Microsoft Word 2010 such as: creating tables, table of contents, a brief review of table of authorities, creating footnotes, and the review feature of Word 2010. Class instruction will end after two hours, but the instructor will stay for an additional half hour to answer questions.

This hands-on class will cover some of the basic features of Word 2010 such as help menu, headers, footers, page numbers, printing and simple formatting. Class instruction will end after 2 hours, but the trainer will stay for another half an hour to answer questions.

For most of us, public speaking can be stressful. This stress, however, can be transformed from an enemy into an ally. In this class, we will discuss ways to harmonize with the natural rigors of public speaking so that speaking to an audience can become empowering. The class is interactive and will include practices on how to become a better speaker. Attendees will not be asked to perform any public speaking.

The OAG will host Biometric screenings during the Wellness Fair. You will need your HealthSelect member card and a government-issued ID, for instance a valid driverÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s license or passport. The screening should take 15 to 20 minutes.

Biometric screening is a short health exam that provides information about your risk for certain diseases and medical conditions. Knowing your numbers Ã¢â‚¬â€œ the results of your biometric screening -- is the first step to healthy living because it helps you understand where you can take action to improve your health.

The OAG will host onsite biometric screenings during the annual Wellness Fair from 10am to 1 pm.

The screening will include the following: Cholesterol/lipid panel, Glucose screening (HgA1c), Complete blood count (CBC), Thyroid level testing (TSH), Body mass index (BMI), Pulse Blood pressure, and Height/weight measurement. You will receive the results about one week after the screening. RediClinic will send the results a secure online patient portal at http://myrediclinic.com/. Participants will be given login information at the screening. If any results are abnormal, a member of the RediClinic staff will follow-up with you.

To participate, you will need your HealthSelect member card and a government-issued ID, for instance a valid driver's license or passport. The screening is covered at 100% by the HealthSelect plan with no cost to the participant.

Each session allows four participants during the allotted time. Â If you receive a notice you are on the waiting list, please register for a different session.

NAME OF COURSE :
Book Review: Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us

NUMBER OF CLOCK HOURS : 2

COURSE DESCRIPTION :

Drawing on four decades of scientific research on human motivation, Daniel Pink exposes the mismatch between what science knows and what business does – and how that affects every aspect of life. He demonstrates that while “carrots and sticks” worked successfully in the twentieth century, that is precisely the wrong way to motivate people for today’s challenges. In Drive, he examines the three elements of true motivation – autonomy, mastery, and purpose – and offers smart and surprising techniques for putting these into action.

Participants are encouraged to read the book; however, it is not required. The first part of class will cover the gist of the book; the second part of class will cover ways to transfer these concepts into one’s work life and personal life.

COURSE DESCRIPTION : Effective written communication, including business letters, memoranda, reports, agendas, etc., contributes to the success of an organization. This course will refresh participants' grammar and usage skills, polish their writing techniques and arm them with tools for proofreading accuracy. Topics include active and passive voice, punctuation marks and their functions, common spelling problems, common grammar mistakes and presentation tips.

COURSE DESCRIPTION : In this course participants will learn how the active voice makes writing stronger, tips for structuring sentences and paragraphs for maximum impact, mistakes proofreaders make that kill accuracy, common error hot spots in writing and guidelines for proofing.

NAME OF COURSE :
Business Writing Essentials: Make Your Point Clearly and Concisely

NUMBER OF CLOCK HOURS : 1.5

COURSE DESCRIPTION :

Business Writing Essentials: Make Your Point Clearly and Concisely

Business Writing Essentials will help participants get their point across clearly, concisely and quickly by eliminating the nonessential, reducing and summarizing one’s message, and presenting information in a format that makes sense.

COURSE DESCRIPTION : Classification and salary administration rules remain a mystery to many managers. This course will help clarify the importance of the state classification system, job descriptions, and salary administration rules and regulations that state agencies are required to follow. Managers will also have an opportunity to learn about available options on ow to expedite the job description development process.

COURSE DESCRIPTION : A coaching session is an ideal way to effectively address performance and conduct deficiencies. Unfortunately, many supervisors choose to ignore these deficiencies, allowing them to develop into serious employment problems. Attendees will view coaching sessions based on common workplace scenarios and gain confidence to effectively conduct this type of corrective action on their own. Participants will also have the opportunity to practice their coaching skills in a supportive classroom environment. This class is ideal for any supervisor who has an interest in quickly resolving workplace problems. Class size is limited.

COURSE DESCRIPTION : This entry-level training covers the basics of using your computer at work. The pace will be slow, questions will be encouraged, and the environment will be safe for any beginner level computer user. If the Windows environment seems confusing, or if you have ever been afraid to ask a question about how to perform “simple” tasks on your computer, this is the course for you. The intent of the course is to make the Windows environment easy and understandable.

COURSE DESCRIPTION : Participants will learn how to use the computer more efficiently. Most mouse functions can be done with simple and easy to remember keyboard shortcuts. Learn some basic, yet underused keyboard shortcuts, as well as some less known shortcuts, that will save time. Attendees will be given a cheat-sheet to take back to their desks.

This class, taught by a local firefighter, will provide attendees with a review of practical information on how to respond to cardiac and breathing emergencies in adults, infants, and children.Â This training will also include instruction on how to use automated external defibrillators (AED).Â Upon completion, employees will receive a card from C.P.R. Resources Inc., certifying that they have completed this training. The certification is valid for 2 years.

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Please note that there is aÂ $20 per-person feeÂ for this training. Payment will be collected during the class and must be made either in cash or by check payable to HOPEcpr.

NAME OF COURSE :
Creating a Table of Authorities & Table of Contents in Word 2007 via WebEx

NUMBER OF CLOCK HOURS : 2

COURSE DESCRIPTION :

This is a webinarclass using WebEx. Directions will be emailed to you regarding how to log in to the class.

A table of authorities is a list of the references to cases, statutes, and rules, along with the page numbers on which those references appear. A table of contents is a list of the headings in a document. Participants will learn how to build a table of authorities and table of contents in Word 2007.

NAME OF COURSE :
Creating a Table of Authorities and Table of Contents in Word 2007

NUMBER OF CLOCK HOURS : 2

COURSE DESCRIPTION :

A Table of Authorities is a list of the references to cases, statutes, and rules, along with the page numbers on which those references appear. A Table of Contents is a list of the headings in a document. Participants will learn how to build a Table of Authorities and Table of Contents in Word 2007.

COURSE DESCRIPTION : Participants will learn how to create, mark and generate successfully an appellate brief using WordPerfect as well as reduce and eliminate corruption by learning to copy/paste correctly into a brief.

NAME OF COURSE :
Data Backup Strategies and Implementation: Implications for IT and RIM

NUMBER OF CLOCK HOURS : 1

COURSE DESCRIPTION : The OAG's A&L Information Technology Support and Records Management Divisions will present information about Data Backup Strategies and provide insight regarding differences between data backup and records management terminology and issues. After the presentation, participants will have the opportunity to discuss these important issues with Ken Dillman (IT) and Kim Scofield (RM).

NAME OF COURSE :
Dealing With Conflict in the Workplace - Star 12 Presentation

NUMBER OF CLOCK HOURS : 1.5

COURSE DESCRIPTION : Most of us resist dealing head-on with a conflict at work; yet, having skills to defuse confrontational moments can reduce our discomfort and stress while also build relationships. In this program, seasoned trainer Ruth St. Pierre shares essential conflict-resolution skills. Participants will learn techniques to restore damaged relationships, how to eliminate the stress you feel when a disagreement erupts, how to end the mixed messages you’re getting from a coworker, active-listening techniques to help you hear the underlying message, and how to defuse emotionally charged situations.

This course is for OAG employees who have liaison/approver access within the e-Leave system.Instruction will show how to use all of the approver functions, including how to mark an employee’s leave request as approved or denied, how to modify or cancel an employee’s leave request, how to submit a leave request on behalf of an employee, how to modify an employee’s work schedule, and how and when to establish a replacement when an approver is out of the office.Finally, we will provide tips and tricks that will help approvers avoid common issues.

NAME OF COURSE :
E-PRO: How to Submit, Track, and Modify Purchase Requisitions

NUMBER OF CLOCK HOURS : 3

COURSE DESCRIPTION : This class is an introduction to the OAG's E-Procurement application (E-PRO) and is intended for employees who prepare and submit purchase requisitions. Attendees will receive instruction on how to submit, track, and modify purchase requisitions (PRs) within E-PRO, as well as on how to share PRs with other E-PRO users, reuse previously created PRs, and work comfortably in the E-PRO environment. Attendees will also receive support documentation that explains many of the system's key features and processes.

NAME OF COURSE :
Editing English: An Introduction to Copyediting and Proofreading

NUMBER OF CLOCK HOURS : 1.5

COURSE DESCRIPTION :

In this class, attendees will learn the basics of editing a manuscript. Attendees will understand the role and responsibilities of copyeditors and proofreaders in the editing process and learn about the "4 Cs": coherency, clarity, consistency, and correctness. Attendees will also receive tips on how to write effective queries and get instruction on applying editing marks to hard copy.

This class is an introduction to editing English punctuation, grammar, usage, and style.Attendees will learn when to use certain types of punctuations, review common issues related to subject-verb agreement, and receive tips for identifying when to use certain pronouns, such as “who” and “whom.” The class will also provide guidance on how to craft gender-neutral sentences and when to employ passive constructions.

This class will review MS Word 2010’s most useful editing features. Attendees will receive instruction on how to track changes, insert comments, and compare documents. Instruction will also be provided on how to set application settings, change document defaults, reveal document formatting, and modify heading styles. Other features, such as Word’s find and replace and its document inspector, will also be discussed. In addition, attendees will receive a customized ribbon interface designed to facilitate the editing process.

Attendees will learn the primary uses for many common punctuation marks, including apostrophes, colons, semicolons, hyphens, dashes, braces, and quotation marks. Hands-on exercises will give attendees opportunities to identify when to use these punctuation marks correctly.

In this class, attendees will learn how to use Word 2010’s essential formatting features. These include how to change fonts, set tabs and indents, set line and paragraph spacing, keep text together on the same page, find and replace text, and use bulleted and numbered lists.

COURSE DESCRIPTION : In this class, attendees will learn how to use the essential formatting features of Word 2013. These include how to change fonts, set tabs and indents, set line and paragraph spacing, keep text together on the same page, find and replace text, and use bulleted and numbered lists.

COURSE DESCRIPTION : This class is an introduction to Excel 2010. Attendees will learn how to navigate comfortably through a spreadsheet and how to select, move, and format data. The class will also provide instruction on how to use many of Excel’s powerful features such as sorting and filtering, formulas and functions, and graphing. The class will also provide tips for printing Excel worksheets effectively and show how to import data into Excel.

This class is an introduction to Excel 2010. Attendees will learn how to navigate comfortably through a spreadsheet and how to select, move, and format data. The class will also provide instruction on how to use many of Excel’s powerful features such as sorting and filtering, formulas and functions, and graphing. The class will also provide tips for printing Excel worksheets effectively and show how to import data into Excel.

COURSE DESCRIPTION : This class is an introduction to Excel 2013. Attendees will learn how to navigate comfortably through a spreadsheet and how to select, move, and format data. The class will also provide instruction on how to use many of Excel's powerful features such as sorting and filtering, formulas and functions, and graphing. The class will also provide tips for printing Excel worksheets effectively and show how to import data into Excel.

Attendees will use MS Excel 2013 to create and manipulate pivot tables, a powerful tool for isolating, summarizing, and aggregating data. Attendees will learn features basic to pivot tables, such as grouping filtering, and summarizing data values. Attendees will also learn more advanced concepts like how to create calculated fields and how to create charts from pivot tables.

Please note: While this class is an introduction to pivot tables, it is not an introductory-level class. Attendees should already be comfortable working in MS Excel.

In this intermediate-level class, attendees will work with many of Excel's powerful features. Hands-on instruction will be provided on how to use many of Excel's built-in functions involving Boolean logic and conditional comparisons ("IF," "AND," "OR") finding data you need ("VLOOKUP"), character manipulation ("CONCATENATE," "LEFT," "LEN") and math and statistics ("SUMIF," "MEDIAN," "AVERAGE"). We'll also look at how to use mathematical operators with dates, create nested formulas, apply formulas across multiple worksheets, and use named ranges in formulas.

Please note: this is an intermediate-level class. Attendees should be comfortable working with spreadsheets and/or have completed the Excel Essential Features class.

This class, taught by a local firefighter, will provide attendees with both a review of a first aid kit and practical information regarding how to provide first aid for issues such as bleeding, broken bones, bites, stings, allergic reactions, and burns. Upon completion, employees will receive a card from C.P.R. Resources Inc. certifying that they have attended this first aid course. The certification is valid for 2 years.

Please note that there is a $10 per-person fee for this training. Payment will be collected at the door and must be made either in cash or by check payable to HOPEcpr.

COURSE DESCRIPTION : Microsoft made a few changes to its word processing software. Some changes are obvious; others are more subtle. Individuals new to the Word environment can learn the basics of Word 2007. Participants familiar with Word 2003 can learn the new features of 2007, including file formatting (.doc to .docx); menu bars v. ribbons; and “Document Inspector” to remove hidden text and meta-data.

This is a webinarclass using WebEx. Directions will be emailed to you regarding how to log in to the class.

Microsoft made a few changes to its word processing software. Some changes are obvious; others are more subtle. Individuals new to the Word environment can learn the basics of Word 2007. Participants familiar with Word 2003 can learn the new features of 2007, including file formatting (.doc to .docx); menu bars v. ribbons; and “Document Inspector” to remove hidden text and meta-data.

Participants will learn how to make their writing stronger and more effective. After instruction, participants will be able to identify the difference between active vs. passive voice and will practice converting passive writing into active writing. During the second half of class, participants will learn punctuation dos and don'ts.

COURSE DESCRIPTION : Participants will learn to improve clarity and reduce clutter in their writing. The class will provide attendees with techniques for identifying unnecessary words, awkward constructions, and ineffective use of the passive voice.

Is it there or their? Counsel or council? That or which? Principal or principle? Do we affect or effect, cite or sight? The answers to these questions will bring much delight! Participants will identify words that are commonly misused and practice writing with proper usage.

COURSE DESCRIPTION : This course addresses the functions and capabilities of GroupWise. Participant will learn how to set a rule, set up a "delay send" e-mail, color-code calendar items, use the "busy" search, create folders, and archive mail.

COURSE DESCRIPTION : Poorly handled conflicts cause anxiety, tension, and stress in the workplace. They also reduce morale and hinder productivity. This course helps you discover a wealth of techniques to end negative attitudes, hurt feelings, and angry outbursts that stem from unresolved conflict. The topics covered will be:

Stop struggling under the stress of overcommitment, too many deadlines, and not enough time. Gain the confidence that comes from being in control of your day instead of your day controlling you. You will get more done than you thought possible when you take charge of your most precious commodity: your time. Time-management expert Deidre Dutcher shares the insights needed to get organized and stay that way.

COURSE DESCRIPTION : This course emphasizes OAG professional needs and uses hands-on computer based instruction. Participant will learn how to create documents that include the use of enhanced formatting, formulas, Web integration, linking, and embedding.

COURSE DESCRIPTION : This training is designed for employees with a basic knowledge of Excel 2007 or who are transitioning from Excel 2003 to 2007.The course will provide an understanding of features, techniques, and procedures that expedite Excel spreadsheet preparation and formatting, as well as working with multiple worksheets, sorting data, and using templates.

This is a webinarclass using WebEx. Directions will be emailed to you regarding how to log in to the class.

This training is designed for employees with a basic knowledge of Excel 2007 or who are transitioning from Excel 2003 to 2007.The course will provide an understanding of features, techniques, and procedures that expedite Excel spreadsheet preparation and formatting, as well as working with multiple worksheets, sorting data, and using templates.

This course emphasizes OAG professional needs and uses hands-on computer based instruction. Participant will learn how to create documents that include enhanced formatting, mail merge, Web integration, tables, linking, and embedding.

COURSE DESCRIPTION : This discussion will cover the basics of Intermittent FMLA. It is designed to provide information concerning the rights and responsibilities of employees who are taking leave intermittently under FMLA, as well as the rights and reasonable expectations of division management. Participants are encouraged to bring questions.

COURSE DESCRIPTION : This course emphasizes OAG professional needs and uses hands-on computer based instruction. Participants will learn how to create and format documents, publish documents to PDF, and learn codes and keystrokes to simulate symbols and other character entities.

Styles in Word 2010 allow users to quickly and consistently format a document and Word integrates styles into nearly every one of its major features. Therefore, understanding styles is essential to unlocking the full power of Word. Attendees will learn how to use, modify, and create styles as well as how to use the navigation pane and outline view to quickly and easily find and move large sections of text. Attendees will also learn how to save styles into a custom template for future use.

Please note: Before attending this class, it is suggested that attendees complete Understanding Word 2010 and Essential Formatting Features in Word 2010, or have a basic understanding of Word 2010.

This course will show the participants how to send and receive files using the Secureshare service. It will also go over how to request files from people outside the agency, enable receipt notification, and revoke access to shared files.

NAME OF COURSE :
LexisNexis Paralegal Certificate of Mastery Program (Part 1)

NUMBER OF CLOCK HOURS : 2

COURSE DESCRIPTION : This course is for OAG employees only. This course meets two hours for 2 days. Participants must attend both sessions to become certified.Participants must obtain a LexisNexis Access Code prior to class.

Participants will cover five modules of LexisNexis: Layout and search features of the LexisNexis Services, Shepard's Citations, Secondary Sources and Drafting Legal Documents on Lexis.com, Public Records on Lexis.com, and News and Business. Participants must obtain a LexisNexis Access Code prior to class.

NAME OF COURSE :
LexisNexis Paralegal Certificate of Mastery Program (Part 2)

NUMBER OF CLOCK HOURS : 2

COURSE DESCRIPTION : This course is for OAG employees only. This course meets two hours for 2 days. Participants must attend both sessions to become certified.Participants must obtain a LexisNexis Access Code prior to class.

Participants will cover five modules of LexisNexis: Layout and search features of the LexisNexis Services, Shepard's Citations, Secondary Sources and Drafting Legal Documents on Lexis.com, Public Records on Lexis.com, and News and Business.

NAME OF COURSE :
Managers' Series- Sexual Harassment: A Commonsense Approach for Supervisors

NUMBER OF CLOCK HOURS : 1.5

COURSE DESCRIPTION :

This course will provide supervisors with a greater awareness of what is and isn't harassment and provide tools for preventing sexual harassment and handling complaints. Managers will also learn how to take appropriate corrective measures when needed. This course will include a video, discussion, and necessary quizzes.

Performance deficiencies are exhibited by all sorts of employees, including the burned out employee, the new employee who is not working out, and the employee who excels in most areas but not all. This class will present options supervisors have to address performance deficiencies. Ignoring performance deficiencies may be the easiest option for supervisors, but it is the most detrimental. The class will include a presentation, discussion, and role-playing exercises.

This class is for OAG supervisors only.

Please Note: This class has been previously offered, but supervisors are welcome to attend again.

Bring your managerial questions and concerns to this brainstorming and solutions-focused roundtable. Representatives from HR will facilitate conversation, offering ideas and support for agency managers.

NAME OF COURSE :
Managers' Series: The New Performance Feedback Policy

NUMBER OF CLOCK HOURS : 1.25

COURSE DESCRIPTION :

The agency has replaced its Performance Evaluation policy with a new policy titled "Performance Feedback." This course will review the new policy and provide guidance on how and when to provide performance feedback. Attendees will also learn of available tools for providing performance feedback.

This class is ideal for anyone who supervises staff and for division leave liaisons. The presentation will include a detailed explanation of all of the different types of leave, including sick, vacation, military, performance, and emergency leave. This presentation will include a discussion on comp time, holiday time, and overtime. There will also be an explanation of FMLA (the Family Medical Leave Act) and how to handle leave-without-pay.

NAME OF COURSE :
Managers’ Series: How To Boost Morale Through Communication

NUMBER OF CLOCK HOURS : 2

COURSE DESCRIPTION :

This class is reserved for managers and supervisors.

No matter what environment one is in, chances are one’s team gets stressed out, burned out, and sometimes feels disconnected. As a manager, one can feel the same way from time to time. Lower morale, decreased productivity, diminishing employee performance, and, ultimately, a decline in agency performance are the results of this type of environment. Oftentimes, communication is the number one culprit of these feelings. Misunderstandings lead to conflict, and a lack of information leaves people feeling in the dark or confused. In short, unclear communication plummets morale. “How to Boost Morale Through Communication” reveals the number one secret for improving communication: focus on others. This is an audio series led by Ruth St. Pierre that will be supported with visuals and interactive dialogue throughout the presentation.

If you are facing expanding workloads, tighter deadlines, and increased pressure to perform at work — you are not alone. In today’s chaotic and constantly changing workplace, everyone seems stretched to the max. With an already full plate and more added to it every day, it is easy to get overwhelmed and lose focus. Unfortunately, you can’t remove all the chaos that swamps you at work; but, there are tools that can help you better manage your time, stress, and the overflow of information that bombards you every day.

In this program, participants will learn:

Powerful planning tools guaranteed to boost your productivity

How to set goals to gain control of your time, projects, and priorities

The secret to making your to-do list work for you

Eight tips for remaining calm, cool, and collected when everything around you is falling apart

Why coping is one of the best stress-management techniques you may ever learn

Participants will learn how to use the main features on Word 2010's Mailing tab. This includes how to generate batches of labels, and envelopes from data files as well as how to create invidividual envelopes and labels one at a time. Attendees will also learn how to generate and send large batches of customized letters and emails.

Attendees will learn how to create and modify custom headers and footers using Word 2010. Attendees will also learn how to insert and change page numbering in a document and how to save their own custom headers and footers for future use.

COURSE DESCRIPTION : This class will provide tips and tricks for maximizing productivity and efficiency when using Word 2010. Attendees will learn how to fully customize the entire Word 2010 interface so that the commands and information they need the most are easy to find and easy to use. Attendees will also learn how to set custom hotkeys, configure features such as autocorrect, and use time-saving tools that can be hard to find.

COURSE DESCRIPTION : Participants will learn how to build a Table of Authorities using MS Word 2013. A Table of Authorities is a list of the references to cases, statutes, and rules, along with the page numbers on which those references appear.

COURSE DESCRIPTION : Participants will learn how to build a Table of Authorities using MS Word 2013. A Table of Authorities is a list of the references to cases, statutes, and rules, along with the page numbers on which those references appear.

NAME OF COURSE :
Navigating the OAG Intranet and Helpful Computer Shortcuts

NUMBER OF CLOCK HOURS : 1

COURSE DESCRIPTION : The OAG Intranet contains a wealth of helpful information about many aspects of the Office of the Attorney General, including our Policies and Procedures Manual, agency forms, the @work employee e-newsletter, employee development and the agency directory. Participants will learn how the Intranet is categorized and how to locate information about each of our divisions including organizational charts, contact information, etc.
The course will also briefly touch on using both Internet Explorer 7 and Firefox internet browsers, keyboard shortcuts, searching our Internet and Intranet, and how to clearly report trouble to the Webmaster.

This course covers changes to the OAG Records Retention Schedule (RRS) based on the new laws. There will be discussion about issues within the OAG divisions which will help the Records Management Division determine future OAG RRS revisions.

This class is for OAG Office Managers and OAG Records Management Liaisons only.

Employees are exposed to administrative procedures, technical processes, descriptions of system applications, functional procedures, State of Texas Regulations, Comptroller's Guidelines and Rules, and agency policies related to the processing of travel reservations and travel reimbursements. Employees will be trained on current processes and new procedures, rules and processes due to changes in state law, and Comptroller rules and agency policies.

COURSE DESCRIPTION : Come spend some time with the Employee Ombudsman, Grace Meyer, and learn how the Ombudsman can support you and your employees. Grace will talk about what she does, how she works with employees, what she can do for managers, answer your questions, and dispel some of the myths about what the Ombudsman does ... and does not do.

COURSE DESCRIPTION : FOR OFFICE MANAGERS ONLY. Gaye Polan from the Public Information and Assistance Division will provide information about PIA's role in the agency and how PIA can assist office managers. There will be an opportunity for questions.

COURSE DESCRIPTION : (Mandatory Every 2 years) Employees will be given an overview of the Public Information Act. In addition, they will be instructed on the agency's internal procedures for answering open records requests.

COURSE OBJECTIVES :

Participants will acquire a general understanding of the Public Information Act.

Participants will acquire a general understanding of the OAG's internal procedures for responding to requests.

Participants will learn what roles the Public Information Coordinator and the Open Records Division play in the open records process.

Participants will be educated on the impact the Public Information Act has on their daily routine.

This class is designed to give supervisors a comprehensive understanding of Outlook's management-related features. Attendees will learn to effectively, efficiently, and precisely organize, find, share, delegate, and track information within Outlook. The class will also cover specific topics such as using categories effectively, maximizing Outlook's search feature, assigning and tracking tasks, sharing calendars, creating contact groups, and automating processes within Outlook.

This class will show attendees how to use Outlook effectively and efficiently. Attendees will learn how to create tasks from emails, reuse existing content by creating templates and "Quick Parts," use Outlook's search feature to find almost anything, customize their user environment so that frequently used but hard-to-find commands are easy to access, and use Outlook's automation tools to maintain a clean and organized inbox.

Attendees will learn how to use Outlook's built-in features, such as categories and flags, to manage and organize their workflow and assignments. Attendees will learn how to create and assign categories to emails, tasks, and meetings; create and manage tasks; and create and configure Outlook folders. Attendees will also learn how to use Outlook's Rules and Quicksteps to automate their organizational process.

Participants will get experience using the functions PowerPoint 2007 offers through creating an individualized presentation. The course will cover basic slide creation, OAG standards and presentation style.

* the most useful features of Microsoft (MS) PowerPoint including setting up the Slide Master to set background, title size, font choice and color, and bullet shapes for different tiers, and all before adding any content;

* key-board short cuts to make creating your presentations easier;

* using the Outline feature to import/export to MS Word;

* how to use the official [and required] OAG template for all presentations to external audiences, and where to locate that template.

* proper presentation techniques: proper use of clip-art, amount of text per slide, fonts, colors, and how to talk to your audience and not to the screen.

Capturing and keeping an audience's attention is the key to getting a message across. This class will explore how to connect with audience members and how to craft a presentation that keeps them attentive and engaged so that the message is uderstood and easily internalized.

Attendees will learn to correctly use the comma in common situations, such as in direct address, with conjunctive adverbs, and in date constructions. Exercises will also show attendees how to identify and punctuate coordinate, non-coordinate, and phrasal adjectives.

Attendees will learn to identify and properly punctuate the key parts of a complex sentence. These parts include restrictive and nonrestrictive phrases, phrases set off from the main sentence, and the intersections of dependent and independent clauses. Attendees will also learn how and when to use coordinate conjunctions, colons, em dashes, and semicolons to separate independent clauses.

NAME OF COURSE :
Put 1st Things 1st: A Guide to Using Time Effectively

NUMBER OF CLOCK HOURS : 1.5

COURSE DESCRIPTION :

This course provides suggestions for how to prioritize, organize, plan, and use time more effectively, thus increasing productivity and reducing stress. The core of this class is derived from Stephen Covey's 7 Habits for Highly Effective People, focusing on habits two (Begin With the End in Mind) and three (Put 1st Things 1st).

On-going training:Use of the records retention schedule and ways that it needs to be revised to meet the needs of the agency while being in compliance with State Laws and Administrative Rules.

All RMLs and OMs will be provided with a list of administrative type records held in most divisions to review prior to the meeting. Questions about issues related to these records will be discussed and direction provided in order to correctly document records series in the revised retention schedule, and to provide guidance on which division holds the official records and who has convenience copies. Questions can be asked in advance by email to Kim K Scofield, RMO, or Sheri Brummett, OM for RMD.

Large data sets may be rich with information, but they can be overwhelming to work with. To reduce the problem, the Legal Technical Support Division has generated a random sampling application that can analyze OAG data and provide employees with the smallest, usable random sample that is still permissible as evidence in court. In this class, LTS systems analysts will demonstrate how the application works, teach attendees how to organize their data to leverage the application, and explain how and why random sampling can help employees with their data analysis.

NAME OF COURSE :
The ADA and ADAAA: Essential Information for Managers

NUMBER OF CLOCK HOURS : 2:45

COURSE DESCRIPTION : This class will provide managers with training on the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act (ADAAA) with a focus on the requirements of these important federal employment laws. Attendees will learn about the concept of “reasonable accommodations” and how to properly handle employment applications from individuals with disabilities, including what not to ask during interviews.

COURSE DESCRIPTION : The relationship you have with your manager is perhaps the most important factor in determining your success at work. This course is designed to provide you with the opportunity to explore the dynamics involved in communication in the work place, discover what works when communicating with your manager, and what you can do to begin building a more effective relationship. You will also learn more about the barriers to communication and how to effectively navigate a difficult conversation.

COURSE DESCRIPTION : As a systematic approach to employee development, supervisors should provide constructive and consistent feedback to their employees. Coaching sessions are excellent tools for providing timely and informal feedback in specific workplace situations. Effective coaching should increase awareness and result in improved performance. This class will provide attendees with tools and tips on when and how to conduct effective coaching sessions. Attendees will also practice drafting documentation regarding coaching sessions.

COURSE DESCRIPTION : The Federal Reserve's new rules for credit card companies mean new credit card protections for you. Come learn about key changes you should expect from your credit card company in effect since February 22, 2010.

This class commemorates the fiftieth anniversary of the passage of the Civil Rights Act. It will provide an overview of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act and the current impact of the law on employment practices. Attendees will receive instruction on the implications of Title VII, its State counterpart, Chapter 21 of the Texas Labor Code, other related state and federal laws, as well as certain legal cases. The class will provide attendees with practical information that will help them better understand how to avoid pitfalls involving employment-law related matters such as the hiring process, reasonable accommodations and disciplinary actions. Emerging legal issues, including genetic information discrimination, also will be covered.

This class provides a tour of the major features of MS Word 2010. Attendees will be introduced to Word’s styles, themes, templates, and building blocks, as well as the three major sections into which Word divides every document.

COURSE DESCRIPTION : This class will emphasize the new Lexis interface and the new refreshed format. Participants will cover both basic and advanced features, especially the Public Records and News Database.

NAME OF COURSE :
What Does This Division Do? Series: Crime Victims Services

NUMBER OF CLOCK HOURS : 1

COURSE DESCRIPTION : The Mission of the Crime Victim Services Division is to assist in the compassionate and effective delivery of crime victim services by offering information, resources, funding, and education to crime victims and the organizations that assist them.

This class will provide tips and tricks for maximizing productivity and efficiency when working in Windows 7. Attendees will learn how to fully control, configure, and customize their computer's work environment so that files and applications are easy to find, easy to access, and easy to work with. Attendees will also learn how to navigate through the Windows 7 directory system and how to use many of Windows 7's most powerful, time-saving features such as the new preview windows, expanded search tool, and Jump Lists. The class will also look at many Windows-specific hotkeys and mouse features that will help attendees to be in complete command of their computer's workspace.

Learn how to use the features in Word needed for laying out and formatting a handbook. Participants will learn how to insert and format text boxes, headers & footers, tables of contents, tables of authorities, tables of figures, indexes, bibliographies, and endnotes & footnotes. Attendees will also learn how to insert columns and horizontal lines as well as how to keep content from breaking across pages.

Understand how Word 2010 works behind the scenes. Learn how Word formats text and internally divides documents as well as how to use styles, building blocks and templates to streamline your documents and create reusable content.

In this class attendees will receive hands-on instruction both in how to make accessible documents in Word 2010 and in how to improve their productivity. Class exercises will walk attendees through how to quickly apply heading styles, create columns from tables, properly insert whitespace, and correct poorly formatted tables. In addition, attendees will receive a checklist with detailed instructions for improving a Word document’s accessibility.

This class is designed for all employees who use Word but is specifically intended to assist OAG staff who create and edit agency documents. There is no prerequisite for the class but some knowledge of MS Word 2010 is helpful.

In this class attendees will receive hands-on instruction both in how to make accessible documents in Word 2013 and in how to improve their productivity. Class exercises will walk attendees through how to quickly apply heading styles, create columns from tables, properly insert whitespace, and correct poorly formatted tables. In addition, attendees will receive a checklist with detailed instructions for improving a Word document’s accessibility. This class is designed for all employees who use Word but is specifically intended to assist OAG staff who create and edit agency documents. There is no prerequisite for the class but some knowledge of MS Word 2013 is helpful.

COURSE DESCRIPTION : Participant will learn keyboard shortcuts, editing the toolbar, suggestions for using a few quick macros for footer, page number, and signature, and how to copy text from any software without those pesky codes and formatting.

COURSE DESCRIPTION : Please join our ISO, Mike O'Connell, for a discussion related to working with the new CheckPoint software. This short course will cover topics such as why we must use CheckPoint, how to run anti-virus / anti-spyware scans on your own, how to encrypt your media (CDs, DVDs, thumb drives, external hard drives), and how to request an exemption from media encryption. There will be time for a Q&A session after the presentation.

The class will review some of the basic features of Word 2007, with an emphasis on how to add, edit and update headers and sections in Word 2007. Some of the items covered in this course include how to add and remove headers and sections for briefs and correspondence with multiple pages and how to add and remove basic Word formatting such as tabs, paragraphs, margins, and line spacing.

COURSE DESCRIPTION : The skill that employers value above all others is the ability to communicate clearly in writing. If you write well, you are a powerful representative of your ideas and your agency. In this course, accomplished journalist Linda Citro shares a wealth of ideas to make you a better writer. Participants will learn what words should never be used in writing and options that can replace them, tips on aligning the message with a professional image, how to trim the fat without altering the message, and the top strategy guaranteed to make all of your writing clear and easy to read. Participants will also review examples of the good, the bad and the ugly.